Lagos State Government through Innovate Eko Mentorship Series, has marked 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, with an impactful mentorship at Dolphin Senior High School, Lagos Island.

The programme brought together top female public officials, educators and administrators, who have distinguished themselves in sectors of Lagos State’s education and governance landscape. Among the distinguished mentors are Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Cecilia Dada; Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih-Awokoya; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite.

Others include Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University of Education, Prof. Bidemi Lafiaji-Okuneye; and Executive Secretary, Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade.

The mentors delivered motivational speeches drawn from their personal journeys of resilience, dedication and service, inspiring the students to dream big and pursue their aspirations with courage and focus.

Mrs Dada encouraged girls to embrace leadership roles and reject intimidation.

“Never limit yourselves because you’re a girl,” she said. “Develop high self-esteem and a growth mindset. Learning a skill gives you relevance, confidence and access to new opportunities in today’s fast-paced world.”

Mrs. Dokunmu-Adegbite advised the girls to recognise their potential to effect positive change through education.

“Every girl possesses the strength, intelligence and courage to drive change, even in adversity,” she affirmed. “The International Day of the Girl Child celebrates your resilience, potential and power to create lasting impact.”

She underscored the importance of empowering girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM), urging them to take up active roles ‘’in these critical disciplines.’’

Prof. Lafiaji-Okuneye dispelled gender stereotypes in science and technology. She maintained that competence, not gender, determined success, encouraging girls to explore science-related careers confidently.

Mrs. Agbaje-Okunade called on young girls to take responsibility for driving social change and community development.

Adding a health dimension to the discussion, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, Dr. Oluwatoni Adeyemi, led a session on personal hygiene, menstrual care and general well-being, emphasising the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle through balanced diets, regular exercise and sufficient rest.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Opeyemi Eniola, hailed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for promoting inclusive education and supporting initiatives that empowered boys and girls across the state.